Recently, the smallpox virus that had been eradicated since 1977 made an appearance in a Food and Drug Administration laboratory. While no one was exposed to the virus, this raises the question of, "What if?"

Doctor and author of new book, "Herd Immunity," Chudi Nwawka presents a realistic prediction of what could happen if the decline of herd immunity continues and exposure to the smallpox virus becomes a reality once again.

"Germs do not die with their victims." Nwawka said. "To really protect and prevent, the world needed to get rid of every single smallpox germ on the face of the earth."

In "Herd Immunity" a UCLA microbiologist in search for purpose in a foreign land, finds himself seeking immunity with the Taliban at a high cost. With the U.S. lacking in herd immunity and the smallpox strand in the hands of a terrorist, a smallpox epidemic spreads quickly.

Nwawka uses this fictitious story to present how herd immunity is effective and the serious need for it. His medical knowledge and background is expressed within the novel, providing insight on the smallpox virus and the importance of vaccinations.

About the author
Chudi Nwawka is a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist in Illinois. He received his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Studying germs and defense against germs are the building blocks in any medical profession, so it is no wonder Nwawka felt compelled to write on the subject of immunology.